English, MA (52-308)

Student Learning Outcomes- The graduate with a Master of Arts degree in English will use the knowledge and skills obtained in the program to:

• Demonstrate general knowledge of the history and variety of literature written in English, primarily British and American.
• Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of a specific literary topic.
• Demonstrate awareness of human diversity as expressed in literature.
• Demonstrate familiarity with scholarly methodologies (historical and contemporary), literary terminology, use of secondary sources, and principles of documentation.
• Formulate original research questions, apply appropriate technologies, and incorporate results into formal oral and written presentations.
• Demonstrate increasing ability to write with clarity, style, and originality.

This program is designed for people who wish to pursue the study of language and literature at an advanced and scholarly level for personal enrichment, career advancement, or further graduate study. Students must have a minimum of 20 credits at the 5000 level and above in their degree program. Two or more advanced undergraduate courses (taken as an undergraduate) in any of the required categories/historical periods will fulfill (without credit) the graduate requirement in that category. A comprehensive examination, OR a three-credit research project, OR thesis is required.

For acceptance into this program, students must have a grade point average of 2.75 or above. In addition, international students must score above 575 on the paper version or 90 on the internet based version of the International Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and earn a score of 5 or better on the Test of Written English (TWE). It is strongly recommended that students have completed 18 hours of English language and literature courses at the 2000 level or higher.

Each student seeking admission must send the following materials directly to the Coordinator of the M.A. English program:

• Two confidential letters of reference. The letters should be written by those most able to address the student’s academic work, written and verbal skills, and promise of achievement at the graduate level.
• A writing sample. The writing sample is a one-page typewritten statement of purpose in which the student outlines his/her educational background, teaching and/or research experience (if any), and reasons for pursuing an M.A. in English.